Clinics in Regensburg warn: Health policy endangers patient care!

Clinics in Regensburg warn: Health policy endangers patient care!

Medical care in the city and district of Regensburg is facing serious challenges. In a press conference called by District Administrator Tanja Schweiger, representatives of regional clinics, including the Regensburg University Hospital and the Regensburg Barmfühlen Brüder, warned of the consequences of the federal government's health policy decisions. These decisions, in particular the planned deletion of the most-favored-nation clause, could result in savings of up to 1.8 billion euros, which would massively jeopardize the financing of medical care. The savings are already anchored in the hospitals' financial planning and are considered worrying by the experts, as over 80% of Bavarian hospitals were in deficit in 2024 due to uncompensated cost increases, according to reports [Wenzenbach].

The situation is exacerbated by criticism of bureaucratic hurdles that hinder patient care. Prof. Dr. Thomas Baghai emphasized the threat to psychiatric emergency care, while Martin Rederer denounced the planned reserve budget as insufficient for smaller clinics. There was agreement that federal political decisions should not come at the expense of the population. The demand is to ensure the economic stability of hospitals, reduce bureaucracy and make reforms sustainable.

New financing system and its effects

As part of the planned hospital reform, a new financing system will be introduced, the so-called reserve budget. This stipulates that hospitals that need them receive money, regardless of the services actually provided. 60% of the previous flat rates per case are secured by this reserve share, while 40% must be earned through treatment cases. The funds will be separated from existing per-case flat rates, but the complete refinancing of care in hospitals remains unaffected, as explained on Federal Ministry of Health.

Experts warn that inadequate funding could lead to overcrowded emergency rooms and longer wait times. In addition, the lack of investment in medical technology and infrastructure could have serious consequences for patient care. Non-profit clinics, which play an important role in health care, are particularly affected.

Global perspectives on health financing

The problem of inadequate healthcare financing is not limited to Germany. Globally, more than half of the population lacks access to vital health services. In many low- and middle-income countries, health systems are severely underfunded, often placing strain on budgets. They bear more than 40 percent of health care costs themselves, which is a main cause of impoverishment, as the BMZ makes clear.

The political and structural challenges lead to insufficient investments in the healthcare system. These developments not only increase costs, but also make it more difficult to sustainably mobilize revenue to ensure a functioning healthcare system. Ultimately, vulnerable populations bear the brunt of these deficits, and health care inequalities are growing.

Given this complex situation, it is crucial that politicians take appropriate measures to ensure the financial stability of hospitals and guarantee health care for all citizens.